The AER’s Vice President, Johannes Sundelin, took part in a dialogue with European Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen, on how the European Union can facilitate housing development and strengthen housing supply across Europe’s regions.

During the meeting, the Assembly of European Regions (AER) highlighted the challenges many European regions face in meeting growing housing demand linked to industrial transformation, demographic change and regional development. Particular attention was given to the experiences of northern and sparsely populated regions, where labour shortages and housing constraints risk slowing down strategic investments and economic growth.

“Housing is a critical enabler of Europe’s green and industrial transition. We need regulatory frameworks and financing instruments that reflect the realities of regions facing rapid transformation, including northern and sparsely populated areas. This dialogue with Commissioner Dan Jørgensen was an important opportunity for the AER to bring regional perspectives directly into the European policy debate,” said Johannes Sundelin, the AER’s Vice President for Clean Industry, Transportation, Transition, Sustainability and Health.

The dialogue provided the AER with an opportunity to contribute to future EU housing policies, regulations and financing instruments, while raising awareness of the role regions play in delivering Europe’s green transition and long-term competitiveness. Through this engagement, the AER continues to advocate for place-based solutions that support sustainable growth, social cohesion and attractive communities across all parts of Europe.